We use cookies to improve your experience on our website and ensure the information we provide is more relevant. If you continue without changing your cookie settings, we will assume you are happy to accept all cookies on the Army website. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

A record Armed Forces Day celebrated

Spectacular celebrations today marked the ninth annual Armed Forces Day, honouring the exceptional work and dedication of our brave Servicemen and women deployed around the world.

A record 300 plus events including parades, military displays and community fetes took place across the country to say 'thank you' to the Armed Forces community for the outstanding work they do.

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and women, both Regulars and Reservists were recognised alongside the wider defence family such as Cadets and veterans past and present.

'Our world-leading Armed Forces'

The national event was held in Liverpool and attended by His Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex representing The Queen and the Royal Family.

Prime Minister Theresa May, who attended, said: "Our world-leading Armed Forces work day and night to defend our country and our way of life, both at home and abroad.

"In the aftermath of the Manchester attack, military personnel played a vital role on UK streets, providing visible reassurance to our communities. And further afield they continue to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria, helping to drive the terrorists back and give ordinary people in those countries the chance to rebuild their lives.

"I am proud to have attended the Armed Forces Day celebrations in the great city of Liverpool this year, joining thousands of people in expressing our gratitude to the men and women who do so much to preserve our freedom."

Other guests in Liverpool included Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon, Vice Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Gordon Messenger, Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson, hundreds of Service personnel, Cadets, veterans and thousands of members of the general public.